The future of technology in education

Computers, the Internet, distance learning, and other educational technologies are a fact of life. Traditional textbooks and worksheets—along with traditional learning environments—may soon go the way of slate tablets. Administrators, teachers, and parents who bury their heads in the sand hoping the technology "fad" will pass them by may be resisting because they see change as a threat or because they do not understand how technology can be integrated into the traditional educational system. Whatever the reason, the longer they delay, the more they are shortchanging children's futures. As research at the Center for Best Practices indicates, technology is an important equalizing tool for children with disabilities. It is an equally important tool for all children.

One thing is clear: the time has come for educators comfortable living with the Flintstones to accept the inevitable and "meet George Jetson!"